Los Angeles Lakers Rumors: Is Dwight Howard Likely To Join Houston If A Championship Is Not Won This Season?

Los Angeles Lakers center Dwight Howard (12) drives against New Orleans Hornets center Robin Lopez (15) during the second half of their NBA basketball game in New Orleans, Louisiana December 5, 2012."

It would seem that the "Dwightmare" has becoming an never ending saga as the Los Angeles Lakers star has remained in trade rumors since he days with the Orlando Magic last season.

The Lakers are currently fighting for the eight seed in the playoff race, and if the post season were to start today, they would ultimately be on the outside looking in. Even with their recent winning streak the team continues to have a lot of work to be done in order to make a postseason appearance this year.

But let's imagine the worst happens and the Lakers don't make the playoffs, their chances of re-signing star center Dwight Howard shrinks as he'll be available to any team this offseason through free agency. As an unrestricted free agent he'll have the freedom to sign with any team he desires.

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Howard has never been shy to say where he'd like to end up, just before arriving in L.A. his first two options were the Brooklyn Nets and the Dallas Mavericks. Though he can still opt to sign with one of those teams this offseason, a new team has is making the presence felt in the Howard bidding war.

ESPN's Chris Broussard reports that Howard is intrigued by the Houston Rockets and the direction they're going.

The Rockets were involved in trade alks, but Howard appeared unwilling to commit long-term to the franchise.

But sources say Howard is aware that the Rockets have emerged as a more attract destination due to their acquisition of James Harden.

The Rockets have been trying to land a superstar player ever since Yao Ming retired due to injury and if they end up signing Howard, they will surely emerge as championship contenders. Houston has a great mix of talent and the team is certainly more athletic than the Lakers.

Also the Rockets (27-24) are ahead of the Lakers (23-26) in the playoff picture. The Lakers know they need to improve themselves in order to keep Howard and without a championship this season, there is a strong possibility that Howard leaves the franchise.